Thursday, May 28, 2009

Lydia Fusco, 18, drew the caricature of Mr. Pickard. She is a 2009 graduate of Indianola High School who plans to attend the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, majoring in Illustration. Her parents are Christopher and Eileen Fusco of Indianola.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

It is a tribute to Clarence Pickard, an 83-year old Indianola resident who rode the first RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa) on a women's bicycle. His gear included long pants, long sleeved shirts, woolen long underwear and a pith helmet to shield him from the heat. Clarence rode every mile of the ride, sometimes finishing in the dark.

Our keepsake pith helmet is of the straw variety, and comes with a complimentary button commemorating Clarence. The button features a caricature of Clarence drawn by local artist, Lydia Fusco.

Area attractions and local businesses are also joining in the fun and ordering buttons that you can collect on your party hat. We're even giving a $100 cash prize to the first person to return to the sales booth on July 21 prior to 8 p.m. with a complete set of buttons on their hat!

Hats can be purchased prior to July 21 by calling the Indianola Chamber of Commerce at (515) 961-6269. Hats can also be purchased at both branches of Community State Bank, McCoy True Value Hardware and Indianola Parks & Recreation. Cost for the pith helmet with commemorative button is $10. Shipping and handling extra.